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In this episode of the Church Potluck Advent Calendar, Dale welcomes back the always-thoughtful Dr. Michael Papazian to explore the rich and often unfamiliar Coptic Christian traditions of fasting during Advent. Rooted in the ancient Church of Egypt—whose history stretches back to St. Mark himself—the Coptic Church approaches fasting not as deprivation, but as a communal spiritual discipline that prepares both body and soul for the coming of Christ. Dr. Papazian explains why Coptic Christians fast for nearly half the year, how vegan fasting foods like falafel developed long before “vegan” was a modern term, and how restraint and anticipation deepen the joy of Christmas. The conversation also includes the remarkable story behind the Coptic Church’s 43-day Advent fast and reflects on how fasting reminds Christians that they are sustained by more than just bread. A thoughtful and accessible invitation to reconsider Advent as a season of preparation rather than premature celebration. 

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